Saturday, 5 May 2018

Hello, I hope you're all enjoying a splendid weekend! We have a plethora of wedding updates to chat about (apologies for the delay in posting, I've been detained with a work commitment), but first we're taking a quick look at the latest sighting of Meghan. The bride-to-be was spotted at Heartcore fitness in Kensington accompanied by a Royal Protection Officer. You can view additional images at PopSugar.

Yesterday morning, a group of royal reporters assembled at the Palace for the final press briefing before the Royal wedding. The exciting update offered terrific insight into a number of key questions we've been asking.

Communication Secretary Jason Knauf opened with the following statement:

'We are now just over two weeks away from the wedding of His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales and Ms. Meghan Markle. As they have travelled around the UK in the months since their engagement last November, Prince Harry and Ms. Markle have been incredibly grateful for the support they have received from members of the public.

The crowds that have turned out in Nottingham, Cardiff, Brixton, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Belfast, Bath and elsewhere have given Ms. Markle a welcome to the United Kingdom marked by warmth, enthusiasm, and a real sense of fun.

We said from the outset that Prince Harry and Ms. Markle were keen to make sure that members of the public would have the opportunity to feel part of the celebrations on their wedding day. This is their way of expressing their gratitude for the messages of support they have received from around the UK, the Commonwealth, Ms. Markle's home country of the United States, and right around the world. In today's briefing I want to share more details of what people can expect to see in the day's leading up to the wedding, and on the day itself, and explain what the public can expect in Windsor.'

Meghan's Parents... The briefing began with news Harry and Meghan "are very much looking forward to welcoming Ms Markle's parents to Windsor for the wedding. Thomas Markle and Doria Ragland will be arriving in the UK in the week of the wedding, allowing time for Prince Harry's family, including the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to spend time with them before the big day". I imagine a family dinner is in the planning. I was particularly excited to hear about Doria's role on the big day; Ms Ragland will travel by car with Meghan to Windsor Castle in a celebration of their incredibly close bond and a testament to the unwavering love and support Doria has shown Meghan. Meghan's father Thomas will then walk his daughter down the aisle of St George's Chapel.

Honouring Diana... There was never any doubt Harry would incorporate his mother in some way during the service. "In addition to having the support of the Queen, his father the Prince of Wales, and his brother Prince William as Best Man, Prince Harry is also keen to involve his mother's family in his wedding. All three siblings of Diana, Princess of Wales will be in attendance and Lady Jane Fellowes will give the reading. Prince Harry and Ms Markle both feel honoured that Lady Jane will be representing her family and helping to celebrate the memory of the late Princess on the wedding day."

The Day Before... Jason Knauf added: "I will now take you through the high-level outline of what you can expect to see from the evening of Friday 18th May. The key moment for the day before will be the arrival of the bride at her accommodation. We expect this to happen early evening." Of course, Harry and Meghan will spend the night before the wedding apart. It is thought Meghan, Doria and friends will travel to an undisclosed location on the Friday before. At this point, there is no official word on whether Harry (perhaps joined by William) will greet members of the public the night before.

Meghan Isn't Having a Maid of Honour or Adult Bridesmaids... Whilst the bridal party announcement hasn't been made yet, it is known Meghan has decided not to have a maid of honour. The Mirror reports: "However she will be having children bridesmaids, and it's likely Prince Harry's niece Princess Charlotte will be among them. A Kensington Palace spokesman said she simply couldn't decide which of her friends to pick, adding 'she has a very close knit group of friends and did not want to choose one over the other'." There was a lot of speculation about who would take up the role on Meghan's big day and lots of names have been thrown around in the last few months. As noted above, we will certainly see Prince George and Princess Charlotte in the bridal party. Their little brother Louis will not be in attendance; Knauf confirmed the Duchess of Cambridge will be there.

'It’s been exactly one month since Prince Philip underwent hip replacement surgery at a London hospital on April 4, and he’s currently recovering from his operation at Windsor Castle.

With just two weeks to go until his grandson Prince Harry’s wedding to Meghan Markle on May 19, the palace has yet to confirm that Philip will be in attendance.

They “very much hope” he will be there, a palace spokesperson said during a briefing on Friday, adding that there will be guidance closer to the wedding date.'

Wedding Timings...

'The first thing these people gathered will see on the morning of the wedding will be the arrival of guests between 0930hrs and 1100hrs. Guests will be arriving at the Round Tower by coach and will be seen walking to the South Door of St George's Chapel.

Members of The Royal Family will begin to arrive from 1120hrs, and enter St George's Chapel via the Galilee Porch. Some will be on foot, and others will arrive by car.

Prince Harry and Prince William will arrive at St George's Chapel most likely by foot and will enter via the West Steps. This will allow Their Royal Highnesses to acknowledge all of the people gathered in the Castle precincts, including the 200 charity representatives gathered in the Horseshoe Cloister at the bottom of the steps.

Also around the time Royal Family arrivals begin, a pooled media facility will cover Ms. Markle and Ms. Ragland's departure from the bride's overnight location. We expect the journey into the Castle to take them along part of the Long Walk, allowing members of the public gathered there to see the car as it passes. There will also be a brief stop at the Castle where Ms. Ragland will head onto the Chapel and Ms. Markle will be joined by some of the Bridesmaids and Page Boys before she continues her journey to the church, where she will enter via the West Steps.

The Service will take around an hour, and we look forward to announcing more details of this in the weeks ahead. After the Service has concluded, the newly married couple will process out of the church and acknowledge the 200 representatives of Prince Harry's charities gathered in the Cloister. The couple are delighted that these people who will be such an important part of their official work in the years to come will be the first people they see after their wedding.

As the couple step into their Carriage, close family members will gather on the West Steps to wave them off on their Procession. As a reminder, we expect the Carriage Procession to take just under 25 minutes. Prince Harry and Ms. Markle are very much looking forward to this part of the day. It will be their chance to express their gratitude for the goodwill and warm wishes they have received from all quarters in the months since their engagement.

Members of the congregation will file out of the church onto the grass to see the start of the Procession before walking to the reception at St George's Hall. All guests will be attending the reception. The public elements of the event will be over at this stage. The final thing you can expect to see is the Bride and Groom departing Windsor Castle for the evening reception at Frogmore House.'

The Daily Mail shared this helpful graphic.

A Delayed Honeymoon & "an Incredibly Busy Year"... The couple have elected to delay their honeymoon until later in the summer as they are said to be very eager to focus on work (they will spend their wedding night at Windsor Castle). In fact, we can expect to see them carrying out their first official engagement as a married couple just days after the wedding. The Telegraph added: "The day of engagements is likely to set the tone for their work as a married couple, and will be focused on charities and causes close to their hearts." In June the couple are set to visit the Republic of Ireland for a two-day mini tour and there's an array of possible 'family annual events' such as garden parties and Royal Ascot.

I know Meghan has been visiting a number of charities around the UK privately in recent months and I imagine she very much wants to publicly lend her support to potential chosen patronages as quickly as possible and indeed forge her own role as patron of the Royal Foundation. An enormous period of transition is ahead for the monarchy and it's of vital importance for members of the family to be seen out working and supporting worthy causes and days of national importance. It's a topic we'll discuss at length after the wedding. As for what we can expect from the couple for the remainder of 2018? Reporter Omid Scobie was told it's going to be "incredibly busy".

After the Wedding... The week after the wedding we can expect to see the official wedding portraits, taken by Alexi Lubormirski, released after the couple have approved them. The Palace will facilitate interviews with those involved including Lubormirski, the dress designer, hairstylist and others.

Announcements Still to Come: The Communication Secretary noted: "As we said back in November, this wedding will be guided by tradition, allowing everyone to celebrate what makes Royal Weddings so special, but also one which reflects the personalities of Prince Harry and Ms Markle." We have been announcing details over the last couple of months and in the final week ahead of the wedding you can expect to hear more about the arrangements, including:

The Instrument of Consent

Details of the bridesmaids and page boys

The work of florist Philippa Craddock and the Crown Estate gardeners who have been growing and preparing the flowers that will fill the church

An update from Claire Ptak, the baker who will make the wedding cake, and the chefs who have been working in the Palace kitchens to make the final preparations

We will publish the full Order of Service on the website on Saturday morning so members of the public can follow the service at home

Windsor Brides... To coincide with the announcement, the Royal family shared a graphic showing a selection of the sixteen Royal weddings which have taken place at Windsor since 1863. It's quite something to see Harry and Meghan writing a new chapter in the history of the Royal residence.

A Ralph & Russo Gown... Rumours have been swirling for months as to who has landed the coveted bridal commission of the year. To clarify, nothing has been confirmed, however royal reporter Rebecca English wrote: "Multiple royal and fashion industry sources have revealed the actress has opted for British couturiers Ralph & Russo to make the first of two gowns she plans to wear on May 19. She will wear the hand-stitched, heavily beaded design to walk down the aisle at St George’s Chapel in front of 600 guests – and an estimated billion TV viewers worldwide – as well as for the reception being held afterwards by the Queen in St George’s Hall at Windsor Castle." To add fuel to the fire, Prince Harry was photographed outside the brand's Chelsea offices last month. Click here to view the images.

During the brief, Sky's Rhiannon Mills couldn't resist asking Jason Knauf if we'll see the couple kiss. Slightly amused, he responded: "I have no comments on kissing today." :)

128 comments:

The more details we get - the more exciting it is getting! I can’t believe it’s so close and I for one, am excited for the dress and tiara! I love that her parents will both be involved but I’m wondering if, without a maid of honor, her mom will help her with her dress? We all know how close they are and I imagine her mother will be more than just an escort in the car on her way to the wedding. It’s going to be a fantastic day and I’m already trying to figure out time differences and when I need to be up here on the east coast of the US.

In addition to the dress, I’m so excited for a tiara. I do still hope for the Queen Mother’s Cartier Bracelet Bandeau but if it’s not that one - I’m hoping for one that is new and made for her. Kate will continue through the tiaras as they get closer to the crown but Harry & Meghan will remain quite a bit behind. I think it would be a wonderful gift, maybe from Charles and Camilla or even Harry himself. We’ll see soon enough!

I have been interested to read all the press about the dress designer. Personally I think that it is all "smoke and mirrors" to put the ever hungry press and us (readers) off the trial of the actual designer. No way would the couple, who have been particular about their privacy, allow the design team be photographed at the Royal School of Needle work or the Prince to be photographed leaving the designers atelier.

I somehow find it strange, too, that Harry would be seen at the designer´s place - shouldn´t the groom be as much "left in the dark" as "the public"? At least that´s what I´m hearing all the time from brides! ;-)))

Dear Charlotte, it's nearly 7.30am Sunday morning as I type this and how great to wake up to such a wonderful post - a benefit of time differences. There has been a lot of what is best described as fake news about Meghan's parents in the news here but my instincts have played correctly. I feel that Meghan and Harry have made their decisions with brilliant guidance and can't wait to see her with her parents on the day. Her mother in the car with her and her father at the church to walk her down the aisle is a lovely and thoughtful resolution . Such an exciting time for H&M and it says a lot about them that the honeymoon is being delayed. She said she would hit the ground running and that she certainly has.

Thank you for all your hard work on both your pages - they are my go to sites first thing each morning (time difference again☺) I don't bother with the papers. Anyway, early morning cuppa time☕

Bronwyn-Sidney, I’m like you - Charlotte’s blogs are my first stop each day, and I don’t read the papers. I work at a place that sells, among other things, magazines and tabloids. Each day when I arrive at work, I see ridiculous headlines like “Meghan is pregnant!” or “all the details about the upcoming royal wedding”. I don’t even look at the magazines, much less buy them. Anyone who reads here knows the truth and already has all of the details - without silly speculation and rampant hyperbole.

Wow and wow! So much information in the past few days! I will be happy as long as I get to see Meghan in her gown, Doria in her outfit, Harry, and all the royal family and friends. That's all. :)

Does anyone know if the issue of homeless people has had a good resolution? Homeless people are people, like us, except they have no home. They are not litter to be swept aside. I am choosing to believe that MM and Harry found some sort of behind-he-scenes resolution.

Maybe he was passing by to say hi to Meghan, if Meghan was anxious why would she ask Harry for an opinion on the wedding gown. She could ask one of the people helping her. If you do not mind my asking how does Meghan sound like?

I can't believe it's 2 weeks until the wedding! I still need to find a link to watch it online. I don't have cable, and I doubt prime or Netflix will have a live viewing ;)

I saw on Twitter that the photographers have to pay money to be able to take the pictures, that they have to pay about $1000 dollars? What is up with that. I know Harry has a hard time with the press, but this doesn't seem right.

It’s very exciting, Ralph and Russo design stunning dresses, I think there has to be some truth in this , someone has spoken to the press. I hope she goes for a sleek simple design rather than the big beaded look as I think Meghan will be overwhelmed in a huge dress. I can’t wait to see what her mum wears , it sounds as if she is going to be taking on the matron of honor role. I imagine she will be helping with the kids as they will have to have someone guiding them. Sinead

I love all these stories “revealing” Meghan’s wedding dress. LolIt could very well be by Ralph & Russo but nobody knows what it will look like. I can’t wait to see everything all together. Dress, tiara, especially flowers. And the title! I can’t wait to see what they get.

Alaina,Hi! Yeah, I’ve heard Sussex is going to most likely be it, but to be honest, as long as it isn’t Windsor (because of the whole story behind Edward & Wallis) or Clarence (because of the last Duke of Clarence and Avondale and his posthumous reputation ) I’ll be pleased.

🌸 I know this is unpopular but I don’t know that the title Duchess of Windsor might not be an option. Maybe Meghan wants to write a new chapter for that title. And live in Frogmore on the Windsor estate. Reportedly, Meghan seems to be in love with Windsor.

Once William is King, things will switch around a lot also. Will he and his family live in Buckingham Palace during the week and then retreat to Windsor Castle like the Queen? Will they live in the main house of Sandringham like the Queen? And Balmoral? If so, who will live in apartment 1A and Amner Hall? Harry and Meghan?

Thank you for so much wonderful information. The anticipation is wonderful. I can't wait to see if William turns and takes a little look as Meghan comes down the aisle as Harry did. It my dreams I would love it if Meghan wore the Spencer Tiara. The Queen had a new tiara made for Fergie perhaps it will be the same for Meghan. I can't wait to see all the children fluttering around her. No mention yet of her coat of arms, I assume it is coming shortly.

🌸 USA Granny. I also hope she gets a Coat of Arms. She just has to get a Coat of Arms. :)Maybe it will have on it elements of her Dad’s British ancestors’ Coats of Arms.

And who will be guiding the children? Good question, Sinead. Will Doria do that? Seems like a lot to ask for a newbie to the world stage, Royal Wedding world stage. I know in her situation that I would grab a seat fast and stay there, lol. :)

And I feel even more strongly now that Meghan will wear the Spencer tiara since Diana’s siblings will be there, including Diana’s brother who is caretaker, I think, of the Spencer tiara. They would love to see Harry’s bride walking down the aisle wearing the Spencer tiara. :)

And, I am so excited to see the wedding photos. (I know, lol. Don’t faint.) I actually like his work, a lot.

Harry can look at Meghan while she’s walking down the aisle if he wants to. There is no rule about the groom not turning around. At most weddings the groom looks toward her while the bride is walking towards him. William and Kate just decided that he wasn’t going to turn, which I found weird since I’ve never seen that at any wedding I’ve been to.

hmm i love Meghan really giving tribute to both parents hmm i think her father raise Meghan in good way hmm and doria too i love that her mom doria will accompany her on her way to st george chapel and i love her father thomas is waiting at chapel hmm and i love that she never as her close friend on role of maid of honor hmm i think her best friends will be guest about the rumor she wearing ralph russo i think let just wait

🌸 That’s funny, Susan. :) Maybe you will find a box of special Royal Wedding tissues. I am surprised those aren’t being sold everywhere. Hope the ladies attending the wedding in St. George’s Chapel tuck a pack of tissues in their purse. And that William has a tissue or two available for he and Harry. 😉

And, it is probably becoming very real to her that she will have a PPO with her wherever she goes from now on. Can you imagine? Kate had about ten years to get use their presence before she had her own PPO. Of course Harry’s PPO has probably been there while he and Meghan were dating so hopefully that helped.

surfer girl, I remember Kate going to a friend´s wedding and she had only one PPO with her, a woman. I enclose a link, just scroll down to "Libelula Dulwich Coat". It´s from January 2011, shortly before the wedding, you can see her PPO with her.... If I remember correctly, her latest "waitrose outing" at that supermarket, she only had one PPO with her, too, right? So nothing unusual...https://whatkatewore.com/iconic-looks-showcasing-well-known-styles-designers/

🌸 right. Thanks, Eve. I do remember that. I was just thinking that since there has been such yucko racism against Meghan that they might beef up security a little. (not speaking anything bad over Meghan).

I have nothing against R&R, but I hope that this leak is a mcguffin. Maybe they are doing her evening outfit. Who knows? I am not taking as fact anything they/KP don't tell us or show us. I CANNOT WAIT!!!! Thanks, Charlotte for the compilation of updates. You are awesome!P.s. I think her American friends are probably freaked out by the hat sitch: Priyanka was on Andy Cohen the other night and said that was her worry. I think it is funny that she gets to be the only Hollywood friend who has been cleared to talk. ON the day I am looking forward to seeing the Suits crew. AND finding out what they are Duke and Duchess of. . . .

I knew of one bride that had an honor guard, a group of special friends that sat together, but not serving as bridesmaids. I could see Meghan's friends serving in that capacity (and possibly keeping an eye on the children). Taking the designer thing with a grain of salt. You just never know for sure. I'd love to see Meghan in a nice bandeau tiara on the order of Queen Mary's Lozenge (without the spiky pearls) or Marie Feodorovna's Sapphire if either still exists.

The more details we get the more excited I am. Can’t wait for the day!I will say that I am only very little surprised at the wedding party. In one of the last posts I wrote that there probably won’t be more than two bridesmaids max. Interesting that she opted out any of them as I don’t get the sentiment that no one should feel left out. We are talking about adults and to choose one or two over the others shouldn’t bring any drama. I am sure Meghan surrounded by the group of children will be a beautiful picture though.Was there any confirmation about a tiara yet? With Kate we didn’t get one before we saw her iirc. Hopefully Meghan will wear one. Would love to see the halo tiara again as I think it is a beautiful wedding tiara for a bride new to the game. It is not too big and seems comfortable to wear, would look nice with lots of different hairstyles and was gorgeous against Kate’s dark hair. I can also see Meghan getting her own tiara. She will never have as many options as Kate and a smallish tiara of her own is a good idea. Especially as many of the British tiaras are quite big guns and that might not sit right with her position. Another thought: Kate doesn’t strike me as one to get the big gems a lot (not like Maxima) and Camilla surely won’t either. So Meghan’s options are even more limited if she doesn’t want to stick out and get a lot of raised eyebrows.Sophie has the aquamarin necklace tiara that is assumed to be her own. But she only debuted it some time after her wedding and right now it is her and Edward who go most of the weddings of other royal families. So she definitely needed her own sparkles. We will see if the same applies to Meghan at one point.Thinking about that: it is so sad that the British dress code for royal weddings is without tiaras (though I believe it is not a rule but a custom). What an eyesight that could be.I feel like the wedding will have a very pinteresty look. Nothing wrong with that per se- I like the current trends very much. But I can sadly see some papers and websites making snide little comments about it. But then, after the first wedding euphoria they will anyway. It happened to all those royal couples that is just part of the business.It is very interesting that the honeymoon will be later and that they are probably going to be out and establish Meghan as full time working royal first. Very smart indeed. They will avoid the lazy headlines when it is time for the honeymoon and some rest due to pregnancy and parenting later on.C.

C., British royal weddings are usually around midday whereas Scandinavian usually are in the afternoon, even late afternoon, so that´s why there is a difference in dress code and evening wear and tiaras are the thing to do. Only Sophie and Edward´s wedding was later in the day which apparently saved the women from wearing hats!! I must admit I like the "going full tiara and everything" to a Royal wedding - it´s always lovely to see all the wonderful dresses, tiaras and the accompanying "bling"!! ;-)))

I would have loved to see Meghan wear the Halo tiara, but as an alternative I wonder if she would opt/or be offered the Battenburg tiara. Sophie of Wessex has worn it. Such a pretty tiara, and something that would look lovely on Meghan.

I am very exciting,thanks Charlotte for this wonderful post,as always!-Meghan likes the pure and simple outfits so I can't believe she will chose this kind of wedding dress!-The tiara:it's Her Majesty's choice so,let's hope the Queen will give her a beautiful one!-Lady Louise of Wessex could be a perfect bridesmaid,she is 14 and she could help the children,-It's wonderful that both her parents will participate.-Windsor is avery romantic place,perfect for a wedding!----I am sure Harry will cry!!!----I am waiting for a kiss,yes!

You know what, Eugenie? That´s what I was thinking this morning: I´m sure Harry will be crying!! And why not? ;-))) I would most probably, too!!I was watching one of the first "H&M wedding documentaries" yesterday on German tv and they also showed clips of "normal" weddings. In one of the clips the groom burst into tears as soon as he saw the bride - tears of pure joy, I want to add!!! He was so happy, he just couldn´t help himself - it was so sweet!!!

@Eugenie: It seems like only ZDF will be showing it (starts at 11:00, I think). Somone said, it isn't a royal wedding if Rolf Seelman-Eggbert isn't the tv presenter- now that he is retired I am seriously contemplating to watch the British version over the internet. The other presenters have always been a disappointment and acted rather silly ang gossipy.C.

Thank you for all the news about the wedding. It's getting more and more exciting every day! It will be wonderful for Meghan to have both parents supporting her. I think the choise not to have a maid of honour could be correct, to treat all her friends equally, but who is going to help her with the dress? As for the dress, I hope for a simple but elegant style, as M usually is. We will soon see...

Wow, less than TWO weeks to go!! I wonder whether they will disclose where Meghan is staying for the night before the wedding - I somehow doubt it, just because if I was Meghan I wouldn´t disclose it, as the location would then be under siege by the press and the public - they disclosed it when Kate married, though. Still, I´m intrigued that we will be able to "follow" the car from the destination to the church.... I just hope and pray the weather will be good!!"A busy second half of the year" - doesn´t sound like "baby news" coming any time soon, right? Sounds like they are "relaxed" about the "baby issue".... My daughter had an interesting thought when we discussed last year that they are going to get married sooner rather than later - she said: "Maybe they don´t have to hurry because they´ve decided that they are going to adopt should Meghan have difficulties getting pregnant?" Certainly very much speculating, but why not? Well, after all it´s their life and their decisions - I´m just hoping they will be happy no matter what!! :-)))))

I hope they don't disclose this location, in this climate it's not safe.If they have to disclose do so in the morning of the wedding. Too many obsessed poeple, some who have said threatening words and dont want Harry to marry Meghan.

Oh I think they will definitely be disclosing where Meghan is staying the night before as "Jason Knauf added: "I will now take you through the high-level outline of what you can expect to see from the evening of Friday 18th May. The key moment for the day before will be the arrival of the bride at her accommodation. We expect this to happen early evening." Notice how they say "what you can expect to SEE" It sounds like the press will be on hand to document her arrival. I think they will be releasing that information a few days before the wedding just as they did with Kate and her family. Or as you say, at the very least we will see it for sure the morning of the wedding:)

Given the plan to film Meghan and Mom in route to Windsor Chapel, there is a good possibility Meghan and the ladies will stay overnight on Windsor grounds--probably Frogmere House. Convenient for both location and security.

🌸 As much as Meghan seems to love Frogmore House (and what’s not to love about Frogmore House), I think that she really might have that as her overnight place. Plenty of room for everyone, security already in place, as someone mentioned. Plus it would add another special Frogmore House layer to the history of their romance.

Could the whole wedding gown bit be a ruse to protect the true identity of the designer? I wonder. Were they concerned about a possible leak and they wanted to be proactive?

The wedding details sound great and me thinks the ladies are in for a very special and pampered experience on the 18th. I also believe these details are a great counterattack against Meghan's chatty family.

Finally, on the gym visit, perhaps it's a generational thing, lol, but I don't understand the hat, especially in May. I know she's leaving the gym, but what about walking out the door with a ponytail and calling it a day?

🌸 rf, :) I think you might be right. That might have been a decoy thing, lol. perrrity clever of them, yeh?And, the wedding releases do so nicely counter the articles concerning the siblings. I think they would have done it that way anyway though perhaps so as to generate more and more interest and to be kind to fans. I also hope that the siblings somehow get the help they need. It must be hard on them seeing Meghan and Harry’s photos everywhere and on everything, and on the television and on the Internet. Can you imagine?

Oh and for what it is worth, lol, I wear a hat like that even with a ponytail often if I’m doing sporty things. Mainly because even in summer here we have ocean breezes that can be almost cold. And the hat helps keep the hair out of my eyes. Plus it helps me elude the paparazzi. 😉

I agree, SG. They would have released the wedding details anyway, but the information does serve a useful purpose. And absopositively in response to your reference to the family's reaction to all the coverage. I think the desperation has been palpable.

And I'm glad you find hats helpful with the paparazzi. I'll have to give it a try. But seriously, I think Eve is correct about it being more of a celebrity disguise. The combination of sunglasses and the PPO looking like he's about to open the umbrella point to that, IMO. I just think there's a happy medium. (I'm referring to the pre-engagement salon outing vs. this approach.)

"Disguise" as in Watch out someone who doesn't want to be noticed so it must be somone important? When has this kind of disguise ever worked when the paparazzi where really looking for someone?My guess is, Meghan is a human like the rest of us and looks as worn out as most people do after a hard time at the gym. So she tried to cover up as much as possible to not see her 'after gym' face on every cover for the next days. In her position I would do exactly the same or rather use the gym facilities in KP....C.

Eve, I had the same thoughts about adoption. Since Harry doesn't have to worry about being king and having his kids next in line, they should be free to adopt and thus have a big family. And a trend among people with funds seems to be having a surrogate when necessary, so there's another option.

Surrogacy is not illegal in the UK. It is highly regulated, but it is legal. The concern is that some women could be used as virtual "baby factories." (One thinks of puppy mills.) It is illegal in Germany, France, and Spain and many other countries.* There are some countries that have allowed a surrogacy business which covers the entire process from in vitro fertilization to implantation, monitoring of the mother, and birth arrangements. Couples who live in countries where it is illegal take advantage of this service. In all instances of surrogacy there are complicated legal issues.Source:* Surrogacy UK; Wikipedia

I have a real problem with anything that comes from the Daily Fail. They simply don't know anything. Last month the gown cost 400k, today it's 100k, then it went up to 135K. They change their story to get the most clicks.

the story about Harry visiting Ralph and Russo is clearly fake, he was going to his gym. But from that false misinformation people now believe he actually visited the designer and wrote a check for her dress. To many lies, mistruths and misinformation.

Thanks, Charlotte. This is a very timely post in that it clarifies some media assumptions and ‘untrues’. The Duchess of Cambridge is sooo right; “you can’t believe everything you read”. From what I have read in THIS POST, the wedding really is reflective of the personalities of Prince Harry and Ms Markle. It is sooo wonderful that Diana, Princess of Wales’ sister will do a reading, representing the Spencer family. Simply wonderful. Great post! Thanks again, Charlotte. 👏🏽👏🏽

No offense, truly, but why doesn’t she have all her friends walk down the aisle as bridesmaids and let them share her joy that way AND be part of history also. I find that unusual given her many, many affectionate photos with her friends. Don’t you?India Hicks and her mother still take great joy in the memories of walking down the aisle with Diana and Queen Elizabeth. As did all their wedding parties no doubt. No offense but I just don’t understand. So why is Meghan not sharing the joy?

I had not thought about the fact that she would be the only adult female going down the aisle. Maybe she does not have a truly close friend? Did she have any bridesmaids or a maid of honor at her first wedding?

🌸 good question Ali. I don’t know. I haven’t seen photos of the actual ceremony. Only photos of after the ceremony. I know though that the dressing room diva in me might want the aisle all to myself, lol, but the real me, who actually would be shaking in my heels at the thought of all those people with their eyes only on me, would want an army of bridesmaids walking the aisle with me for support and for support standing by me at the altar. Surely Meghan will have some of her friends in the wedding party. I think she will.

"I find that unusual given her many, many affectionate photos with her friends. Don’t you? No, I do not find it unusual as I did the very same thing for my wedding for the same reason Meghan has given. My friends understood and were still very happy for me. SG and Ali I think after everything we have read about Meghan and her friends especially about the "best friend who sold her to papers" I find your comments "interesting" and not in a positive way.

Sophie had only small children following her. Anne had only 2 children - because she didn´t want to worry about a bunch of small children possibly doing all sorts of crazy things behind her... it was her brother Edward and Princess Margaret´s daughter Sarah. Sarah Ferguson had only children following her.Pippa was a real exception as she was rather "old" as a bridesmaid. So there´s not really any "rule set in stone" to it. And a bunch of 30somethings following the bride is not really royal wedding standard, either. So I guess we should all relax and not read too much into it!!

Because not everyone is fame hungry. If my best fiend was marrying a public figure and the wedding was broadcast live on international TV, I’d be horrified at the thought of her asking me to be a bridesmaid. I’d definitely say ‘’it’s an honour, but no thank you’’.

I believe Autumn had several adult females in her wedding party. I don't have any idea why Meghan made the decision. I am sure she had a good reason for it. I think the choosing aspect certainly entered into it. I don't think all children is unusual for the UK. Most American weddings have adult attendants, I believe; however, Meghan seems to be trying to adapt in ways to her new identity.And then there is the Pippa factor...

I have no doubt that Meghan has many dear girl friends to choose from for maid of honor, etc but I applaud her decision not to single any one out. Plus I think she made this decision as to make sure her friends enjoy the wedding & not have to worry about any responsibilities on a day that will be high-pressured!

While I believe the reason given for no adult bridesmaids is valid and fits Meghan's personality, but I think another underlying reason is wanting to protect her friends from the media. Lindsay her university best friend is the person she likely would have picked as the bridesmaid to match William if she had to choose. Lindsay has a small child and lives in London at least part of the time. The way the media justifies their actions they would see Lindsay accepting an official role in the wedding as also accepting media scrutiny. Much like as soon Meghan's Vanity Fair interview was published Royal Reporters were on twitter saying that Meghan had forfeited any right to privacy by agreeing to that single interview. Lindsay gets mentioned in articles, but she and her family would be subject to huge wave of media scrutiny if she walked down the aisle with Meghan in front of hundreds of millions of people watching the wedding.

SG, I think the question is a reasonable one; I also think there are several possible explanations (some covered in this thread). And it's nice that she is supported in her decision rather than being accused of giving up her identity to accommodate royal customs. ;-)

Most European weddings don't feature many bridesmaids or any at all. In some countries is has been the standard that the couple walks in together but this gets less as many follow the idea of a father walking in the bride.Having children is a bit different.I think Meghan wants to avoid any criticism that might rise from having an "too Americanised" wedding especially as she is marrying into THE British family that represents the UK, GB and the Commenwealth.C.

Anon 18:48 you are reading too much into my statement. As an adult women I do not have what I would consider a best friend, so if I was getting married I very well might not have a maid of honor or any bridesmaids. No idea what you are talking about in terms of what her friends have said. I have not followed wedding stuff in a long time. Although thinking about it I did go to a wedding about 10 years ago without any bridesmaids or maid of honor here in the states. All the other reasons given in this thread make sense also.

🌸 I SO hope, VERY MUCH hope, that Harry and William are standing by the altar so that they can easily see the entrance of the church so they can see Meghan and her father and the wedding party enter the church and walk down the aisle. 😳😊It does not make ANY sense to have the groom and best man standing facing away from that beautiful and important part of the wedding day, right? It makes no sense at all, lol. I hope they start a new tradition with that for sure and that Harry and William get to see Meghan, her dad and her wedding party walk down the aisle.😉 It’s a poignant and very special part of the wedding day.

Harry. William. Stand so that you can see the wedding party walk down the aisle.🎉 (and wear go cams. discreetly, for real. lol)

Surfer Girl @ 16:12. I’m sure the decision re adult bridesmaids was made with the understanding of Ms Markle's friends. Considering all the sibling/paternal family tensions, it is probably best that the focus is on Ms Markle’s dear mother and her father. I’m sure her close LOYAL female friends all would have enjoyed being bridesmaids, but I believe those same LOYAL close friends understand and accept Ms Markle’s decision. Thanks again, Charlotte.

When you read of all the many thoughtful and loving details going into this wedding, sort of sums up H&M I think. So lovely that both her parents will play such significant roles on the day. Can imagine it will be quite an emotional day for both of them. With the dress, I'm still hoping she'll go a more romantic look, nothing too heavy or beaded. Whatever Meghan has chosen, she'll look pretty spectacular :-)Charlotte as always, thank you for such a detailed post :-)

Wonderful post as ever - thank you Charlotte. It occurred to me that by not having adult friends as bridesmaids Meghan is potentially sparing them an awful lot of media scrutiny or even intrusion. Her mum can help with the dress and her friends can just enjoy the day with her. Less than two weeks to go, I can’t wait!

From past royal weddings, how much were 3 yr olds scrutinized being in the wedding party, let's start with Cambridge wedding going back. They are just babies but adults can be considered fair game by the media.

Just my opinion, but here in the U.K. I think adults and children would be treated very differently by certain parts of the media. I know her friends are already well known but they are not reported on everywhere here in as great detail as they would if chosen as bridesmaids.

I was just speculating; Meghan has her reasons and I am sure it will be very cute seeing her little bridesmaids and pageboys.

Does anyone think they will do something whimsical like release a bunch of balloons when they step out on the steps of St. George, or release doves. Something that puts a stamp on their wedding that is unique. Hope the weather is sunny. Parthenia

Nicoline, ever since I've read and heard that balloons are deadly to animals and birds, it does bother me as well to see balloons released. I understand the sentiment but so many people do not realyze the consequences as I didn't for so long.

Is it possible that Meghan and Harry might have only George and Charlotte as attendants? They might walk down the aisle ahead of her. In North America attendants generally walk before the bride and the bride comes at the very end as the finale to the wedding party.

I bet they include at least Mia but suspect Lady Louise and a few others as well. I personally hope they do not do something like release birds or balloons there is already so much going on with this wedding.

🌸 Sarah. :) I think most of them are already on the media’s radar and most of them have been even before Meghan. And, even as Royal guests, if they weren’t on the media’s radar before, they will be from now on anyway. And, if the truth be told, I think most of them would enjoy being in those historic wedding photos as part of the wedding party just as India Hicks and her mother still are enjoying the memories to this day. I agree with you that her mom should have to do nothing but be pampered and enjoy. 😉

Like a few other folks here, I also opted not to have a bridal party because I am fortunate to have many close friends from different phases of my life and I didn't want to have a party of 15 people or have to choose between them. Some of my friends were disappointed, but then later told me they were happy to not have to go through all the fuss! I just wanted them to relax and enjoy the party. Different strokes for different folks, of course, but I don't see anything wrong with opting out of this particular tradition.

Another thought here is the intense media scrutiny. I'm sure no one can forget all the coverage of Pippa and her bum in her white bridesmaids dress. I never thought Kate was upset that Pippa was "stealing her thunder" - Kate is both a future queen and a seemingly shy person, I don't imagine she's overly concerned about her "thunder" - but Pippa and her bum got A LOT of coverage. I'm sure it was uncomfortable for everyone. By not putting a friend in such a prominent position, Meghan assures them of a little less scrutiny.

I'll be very curious to see whether the Ralph & Russo rumor turns out to be true. I thought she'd perhaps skip them because they did the engagement dress. Heavily beaded also doesn't seem to fit with Meghan's style otherwise and her previous comment that classic simplicity is the name of the game. I thought it likely we'd see her in something clean and structural. Interesting tailoring and fabric but not a lot of fuss. But Meghan does surprise us! Can't wait to know for sure!

I think she will include Jessica Mulroney's daughter Ivy and perhaps two other children from her "past life." I thought that either those moms could handle the kids and/or Carole Middleton could herd the children, seeing as how two are her grandchildren.

I hope Meghan keeps her gown simple and definitely not heavily beaded. Didn't one possible choice of little bridesmaid be a daughter of one of her Canadian friends come to London for a fitting?? We know of at least 2 for Harry's side. I like the fact that the wedding party is Bride and children. Pippa's wedding was so sweet with the children. Meghan will be beautiful. Maybe their honeymoon won't be till August when all the royals take time off.

Than you SG. I think you are right. And since I read today that 4 yr old Ivy's 7 yr old twin brothers might be page boys. Harry has probably gotten to know the entire family with all his trips to Toronto. Children of her very good friend Jessica Mulroney. How cool is all that.

The more I’m thinking about it - the more I’m leaning towards Ralph & Russo possibly did her reception dress. I can’t imagine she would go to the designer’s shop for THE dress and as for Harry - the gym or some other shop in the location seems feasible.

I’m also thinking they went with children attendants as to not put her friends under harsher scrutiny. I wish she had chosen her friends but the more I think about it - the more I understand. I would not be surprised if her friends were with her the night before or even the morning of. They can help get dressed and prepared without being in the service.

🌸 Think of all the occasions where Meghan will wear a tiara as a Senior Royal in the future, particularly when William is King. So even if she is gifted with a tiara of her own, she and Queen Kate will probably have a lot of fun with all the historic tiaras, yeh? Yay

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